Final answer:
A person saying "yes" to an expert is demonstrating obedience to authority, as they see the expert as a figure whose power and advice are worth following. This response is not due to reciprocation, consistency, or social validation, but rather the recognized expertise and respect commanded by the authority figure.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a person says "yes" because the suggestion comes from an expert, this is an example of obedience to authority. Authority refers to accepted power—that is, power that people agree to follow because they feel those in authority positions are worthy of respect. People tend to perceive the objectives and demands of an authority figure as reasonable, beneficial, or true, which is why they are more likely to agree with their ideas or take their advice.
Reciprocation, consistency, and social validation are different aspects of social influence. Reciprocation involves returning a favor, consistency refers to aligning with previous behavior or commitments, and social validation involves adopting beliefs or actions because many others do. In the scenario given, the person is complying due to the influence of an authority figure, not because of reciprocation, their own past consistency, or the behavior of the masses.